Table of contents

• The Subbrow Lift Procedure: A Detailed Overview
• Best Clinics in Korea for Puffy Upper Eyelids
• Navigating a Subbrow Lift in South Korea for Medical Tourists
• Cost Analysis: Subbrow Lift in South Korea vs. Other Countries
• Patient Experiences and Outcomes: Addressing "Puffy Upper Eyelids"
• Conclusion
• References

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Many people describe "puffy upper eyelids" as ongoing fullness and bulging above the eyes—a concern that can make you look tired, feel heavy, or appear older than you are. Sometimes, this extra tissue even blocks part of your vision, especially at the sides, making daily tasks harder.

"Puffy upper eyelids" can mean different things, and knowing the distinctions helps when looking for solutions:

• Dermatochalasis: This refers to loose, extra, and sagging eyelid skin—the main cause of fullness and bulging for most. Dermatochalasis is common with aging but can happen in younger people due to genetics or conditions like thyroid eye disease, renal failure, or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. People with dermatochalasis often feel their eyes look tired or baggy.
• Orbital Fat Prolapse/Herniation: When the fat that cushions your eye bulges forward (often because the tissue containing it weakens), it creates puffiness or bulges. It’s typically a soft bump in the upper outer eyelid area. While mostly harmless, it can be uncomfortable or a cosmetic concern.
• Blepharitis: This is eyelid inflammation, especially at the lashes, leading to red, itchy, swollen, or greasy-looking lids. Symptoms are often worse upon waking. Causes include clogged glands, infections, dandruff, rosacea, allergies, and even mites or lice. Blepharitis is often chronic and can cause further eyelid or eye problems.
• Other Causes of Swollen Eyelids: Not all puffiness is chronic or structural. Allergies, infections like conjunctivitis, injuries, fluid retention (noticed in the morning), or trauma can also cause swollen lids.

Understanding what's behind your eyelid puffiness is key. "Puffy" can mean many things—some short-lived and others requiring medical or surgical care. Procedures like the Subbrow Lift specifically treat structural issues such as dermatochalasis or orbital fat prolapse, or drooping brows. Knowing your cause helps guide you to the right treatment and sets realistic expectations.

When to Seek Medical Advice

It’s time to consult a healthcare provider if eyelid puffiness comes with pain, lasting redness, discharge, vision changes, or if it doesn’t improve with good hygiene. Also, if you have concerns about underlying health issues such as thyroid disorders or diabetes, see a doctor.

The Subbrow Lift Procedure: A Detailed Overview

The Subbrow Lift is a specialized cosmetic surgery known by names such as sub-brow excision, infra-brow skin excision, direct brow lift, direct browplasty, or sub-brow lift blepharoplasty.

What is a Subbrow Lift?

The goal of a Subbrow Lift is to tackle sagging skin and uneven contours right beneath the eyebrows—key contributors to heavy or tired-looking upper lids. Its objectives include:

• Lifting and Skin Removal: Lifts or removes sagging skin, especially on the outer upper eyelid.
• Reducing Hooding: Lessens hooded eyelid appearance, making the eyelid crease more visible and defined.
• Rejuvenating the Eye Area: Refreshes and opens up the eyes for a more youthful, vibrant look.
• Restoring Facial Harmony: Corrects drooping in the sub-brow area to even out the upper face.
• Correcting Asymmetry: Balances uneven brow positions that might add to a fatigued look.

How it Differs from Traditional Eyelid and Brow Lifts

Compared to other facial rejuvenation procedures, the Subbrow Lift offers key differences:

• Traditional Upper Blepharoplasty: Focuses only on the upper eyelid, removing extra skin and fat from the crease, sometimes causing unnatural looks if skin types differ.
• Subbrow Lift Approach: Uses an incision right beneath the brow, allowing skin removal and lifting while preserving the natural eyelid crease. This is great for targeting outer eyelid sagging and suits those wanting a natural look, especially if they have a double lid fold or thicker eyelid skin.
• Traditional Brow Lift: Lifts the whole brow and smooths the forehead—much more extensive than a Subbrow Lift.
• Subbrow Lift Advantage: Targets heaviness directly below the brow without major changes to brow position or long forehead incisions, making it less invasive with subtle but significant results.
• Combining Procedures: Many patients combine the Subbrow Lift with blepharoplasty, brow lifts, or fillers for optimal results.

Who is an Ideal Candidate?

A good candidate for a Subbrow Lift generally meets these criteria:

• Has moderate to severe sagging in the brows or forehead.
• Has mild to moderate upper eyelid drooping but doesn’t need a full brow lift.
• Shows excess skin or fat in the eyelids or dropping brows.
• Has an existing double eyelid fold with saggy lid skin.
• Is of Asian descent (the procedure adapts well to thicker eyelid skin and preserves existing folds/monolids).
• Seeks to correct uneven brows or a tired, aged eye appearance.
• Wants a focused, less invasive alternative to a full brow lift.
• Has eyebrow tattoos, which can help hide a scar.
• Is overall healthy and understands the likely results.

The Surgical Process: What to Expect

Here’s how the Subbrow Lift typically unfolds, from preparation to recovery:

• Preparation: You’ll have a full consultation—your doctor reviews your facial features, skin, health, and goals. You may see digital simulations. Be thorough about allergies, medical history, and medications. Typical instructions: stop aspirin (2 days prior), Vitamin E (1 day prior), and smoking (at least a month prior). Prepare comfy clothes, sunglasses, and ice packs, and ensure someone can pick you up.
• Anesthesia: Most Subbrow Lifts use local anesthesia with sedation for comfort, but general anesthesia is sometimes an option.
• Incision and Technique: The surgeon makes a precise cut just below the eyebrow, following its curve or brow line, so it hides easily. In cases of severe skin laxity, especially for Asian patients, an extended approach may be used.
• Tissue Adjustment and Suturing: Through the incision, the surgeon removes or reshapes skin, fat, or muscle for lift and tightening. The skin is re-draped and closed with fine stitches to ensure a smooth, natural contour and minimal scarring.

Potential Risks and Complications

Any surgery has risks. With a Subbrow Lift, possible issues include infection, bleeding, visible scars, eyebrow or eyelid asymmetry, changes in sensation, or local hair loss. Most scars fade within 1-2 months and can be hidden by brow hair or tattoos. Note: this surgery does not address the levator muscle, which raises the eyelid.

Recovery Timeline: A Step-by-Step Guide

Recovering from a Subbrow Lift happens in stages:

• Days 1-3: Expect swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort. Keep your head up (even when sleeping), use ice packs, avoid activity, and rest.
• Days 3-7: Swelling subsides, some puffiness lingers. Switch to warm eye pads, and get stitches out around day 4-7. Wear sunglasses outdoors.
• Weeks 2-8: Bruising gone by week 2. Swelling and scar redness fade in 2-4 weeks (sometimes up to 8). Keep avoiding strenuous exercise and smoking for a month.
• Months 3-6: Scars fade and become less noticeable (often fully by month 3). Full aesthetic results may take up to 6 months, with numbness or tightness resolving.

Patients often focus on “when I can go back to normal,” but it’s important to know that final results and scar fading take several months, and patience is key for a successful outcome.

Best Clinics in Korea for Puffy Upper Eyelids

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for puffy upper eyelids:

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
THEPLUS Plastic Surgery	Located in Garosu-gil, Gangnam; recognized for advanced plastic surgery and treatments for puffy upper eyelids; staffed by renowned surgeons Dr. Kim Taek Kyun, Dr. Jeong Jae Yong, and Dr. Lee; strong commitment to medical research, teaching, and international collaboration; comprehensive care from consultation to surgery; focus on natural results, safety, and satisfaction.	Advanced eye surgeries for puffy upper eyelids; expertise in rhinoplasty, facial contouring, breast augmentation; use of 3D facial implants; personalized, facial harmony-focused techniques.
Made Young Plastic Surgery	Located in Gangnam; leading in facial rejuvenation and anti-aging; individualized, scientifically backed approach; experienced doctors (15+ years); board-certified anesthesiologists present; 1:1 monitoring; dedicated aftercare center; award-winning and nationally recognized; direct doctor consultations and customized plans.	Multi-layer lifting by dissection under SMAS layer targeting root causes of eyelid puffiness; upper blepharoplasty, ptosis correction; advanced non-surgical procedures; full CCTV and cross-check safety systems.
Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic	Comprehensive aesthetic care; philosophy of sincerity and precision; individualized treatments; led by a renowned female plastic surgeon; focus on both aesthetic and functional eyelid rejuvenation; full range of facial procedures starting with personalized evaluation.	Full facelifts, mini lifts, endoscopic forehead lifts, thread lifts, laser-based lifting; tailored eyelid procedures considering unique aging patterns and aesthetic goals; blend of advanced technology and artistic approach.

THEPLUS Plastic Surgery

Located in the vibrant heart of Garosu-gil, Gangnam, THE PLUS Plastic Surgery clinic is recognized as a leader in advanced plastic surgery, offering specialized treatments for conditions such as puffy upper eyelids (eyelid edema and dermatochalasis). With a reputation for medical excellence and innovation, the clinic is staffed by renowned plastic surgeons including Dr. Kim Taek Kyun, Dr. Jeong Jae Yong, and Dr. Lee, all of whom bring decades of expertise and global recognition to their practice. Dr. Kim is internationally acclaimed for his work in rhinoplasty and facial contouring, holding membership in multiple prestigious surgical societies and earning accolades for research on 3D facial implants. Dr. Jeong, as President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons, represents the pinnacle of surgical, aesthetic, and academic leadership, regularly educating both peers and future surgeons on the integration of function and beauty. Dr. Lee specializes in breast augmentation and is recognized for her natural, long-lasting results as well as her foundational experience at the nation’s top hospitals.

THE PLUS Plastic Surgery clinic is designed to provide comprehensive care, from in-depth consultation to state-of-the-art surgical procedures, including a suite of advanced eye surgeries tailored to address puffy upper eyelids. Their collective approach places a high value on achieving facial harmony and natural aesthetics while prioritizing patient safety and satisfaction. The team’s remarkable commitment to continuous education and international collaboration ensures every technique and treatment remains at the cutting-edge of global standards. Whether you are seeking correction for puffy upper eyelids or broader facial rejuvenation, THE PLUS Plastic Surgery delivers personalized, highly skilled care backed by a world-class team and a strong foundation in medical research and teaching.

You can check out their website here: THEPLUS Plastic Surgery Website

Made Young Plastic Surgery

Made Young Plastic Surgery Clinic, located in the heart of Seoul’s renowned Gangnam district, is a leading destination for facial rejuvenation and anti-aging solutions, especially for those seeking effective treatment for puffy upper eyelids. The clinic is celebrated for its individualized, scientifically backed approach that combines an in-depth analysis of facial sagging with precise, minimally invasive techniques. By dissecting beneath the SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) layer to release stretched supporting tissues, Made Young not only tightens but also lifts the skin, fat, and SMAS layer together. This multi-layer lifting achieves comprehensive, long-lasting, and exceptionally natural results without causing unwanted fullness or exaggerated cheekbones. Whether it’s for cosmetic beauty or functional eye improvement, Made Young’s unwavering dedication to safety, expertise, and patient-centered care makes it the ideal choice for the correction of puffy upper eyelids.

Why Made Young Plastic Surgery is the Best Clinic for Puffy Upper Eyelids:

• Leading expertise: All procedures are performed by skilled doctors with an average of over 15 years of clinical experience, ensuring refined and reliable outcomes.
• Specialized technique: Advanced dissection and lifting under the SMAS layer allows for the release and repositioning of sagging tissues, directly addressing the root cause of eyelid puffiness for a more natural look.
• Comprehensive safety measures: • Board-certified anesthesiologists are present at all times. • 1:1 dedicated patient monitoring during every procedure. • Cross-check systems and full CCTV for the highest transparency and emergency readiness.
• Exemplary aftercare: A separate, dedicated aftercare center guarantees thorough post-procedure recovery and support.
• Accolades & recognition: Recipient of the 2022 Korea No.1 Award, ranked 1st in Korea Customer Satisfaction, and endorsed by national surgical societies—testifying to unmatched quality and trustworthiness.
• Tailored, patient-first approach: Every patient receives a direct consultation with the medical team and a fully customized treatment plan, optimizing both cosmetic and functional results for eyelid concerns.
• Full range of supporting procedures: From upper blepharoplasty and ptosis correction to advanced non-surgical treatments, patients have access to all necessary options in one place, tailored to their specific needs.

With its combination of surgical precision, robust safety systems, and a compassionate multidisciplinary team, Made Young Plastic Surgery stands out as Korea’s premier clinic for anyone seeking the best possible results in treating puffy upper eyelids.

You can check out their website here: Made Young Plastic Surgery Website

Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic

Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic stands at the forefront of comprehensive aesthetic care for patients seeking effective solutions to puffy upper eyelids in Korea. With a philosophy grounded in sincerity, precision, and individualized treatment, the clinic offers more than just medical procedures; it guides each patient through a transformative experience, ensuring that their unique needs and expectations are meticulously addressed. Our highly specialized team, led by a renowned female plastic surgeon, provides expert care, driven by a deep understanding of both the aesthetic and functional aspects of eyelid rejuvenation.

The clinic’s extensive portfolio includes a full spectrum of facial rejuvenation procedures—ranging from full facelifts and mini lifts to advanced endoscopic forehead lifts, thread lifting, and laser-based lifting techniques. Every treatment begins with a personalized evaluation, taking into account each individual's aging patterns and aesthetic goals. For eyelid procedures, this tailored approach is essential in designing natural and harmonious outcomes. By combining cutting-edge technology with thoughtful artistry, Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic delivers solutions that restore a youthful, refreshed appearance to the eye area, enhancing both confidence and quality of life for each patient.

You can check out their website here: Okay Plastic Surgery Clinic Website

Navigating a Subbrow Lift in South Korea for Medical Tourists

South Korea draws a global crowd for plastic surgery—and the Subbrow Lift is no exception.

Why South Korea for Cosmetic Procedures?

Here’s why so many people choose South Korea:

• Top Technology and Expertise: Korean clinics use the latest techniques and boast high success rates.
• Affordability: Surgery packages are often 40-65% cheaper than in Western countries, and costs are bundled to include more than just the procedure.
• Smooth Logistics: Medical tourism agencies help with everything—visa, flights, hotels, and transport.
• All-Inclusive Packages: Many clinics offer packages covering consultations, tests, surgery, anesthesia, accommodation, transfers, and follow-ups.

The Patient Journey: Step-by-Step Process

Here’s what the process usually looks like:

• Initial Consultation: Often starts online with a surgeon. You’ll discuss your goals, get assessed via video or images, and see simulations.
• Pre-op Requirements: Disclose all health info, get tests, and stop certain meds or habits as directed. Agencies can help with visas.
• Surgery Day: Local anesthesia with sedation is the norm; the surgery takes 45–90 minutes. You’ll have precise incisions, excess tissue removal, and careful suturing.
• Post-op Care: Swelling is managed with cold packs and an elevated head. Stitches out in 4–7 days, with online follow-ups possible after you go home. Detailed care instructions are given.
• Travel and Accommodation: Many packages include hotel stays and regular transfers. Plan to stay 6–7 days for suture removal and initial follow-ups. Language support and premium recovery options may also be available.

South Korea’s ability to bundle surgery, care, and logistics into one predictable experience sets it apart—especially for patients who value convenience, transparency, and cost-effectiveness.

Table 1: Typical Patient Journey for Subbrow Lift in South Korea

Phase	Key Activities	Approximate Timeline	Key Support/Inclusions
Pre-Arrival Planning	Online/in-person consults, medical history/tests, plan finalization, visa applications, travel/bookings, pre-op instructions	Weeks/Days Before Surgery	Agency coordination, translation, visa help
Day of Surgery	Arrive at clinic, checks, anesthesia, Subbrow Lift (45–90 mins), post-op care, discharge	Day 0	Clinic staff, anesthesia, post-op instructions
Immediate Post-Surgery	Manage swelling/pain, stitch removal (Day 4–7), first follow-up, wound care, light activity back	Days 1–7	Medications, packs, transfer, translation
Mid-Term Recovery	Bruising resolves, swelling reduces, scar fades; return to desk work, avoid strenuous activity, hair regrowth	Weeks 2–8	Follow-ups, scar care guidance, restrictions
Long-Term Outcome	Scar fading (by 3 months), final results (up to 6 months), possible long-term online follow-up	Months 3–6+	Online follow-ups, sun protection advice

Cost Analysis: Subbrow Lift in South Korea vs. Other Countries

Money matters—especially when you’re traveling for care.

Average Costs in South Korea

A "Brow lift" or Subbrow Lift in Seoul averages about $3,121, with most packages ranging from $2,290 to $5,000, often including consultations, surgery, anesthesia, and sometimes hotels and transfers.

Cost Comparison: South Korea vs. USA and Turkey

Comparing international prices, South Korea often offers a better deal overall:

• South Korea: Packages from $2,290–$5,000 for a Subbrow Lift or similar surgeries, usually including multiple services.
• Turkey: Starts around $2,040, but patients may pay extra for accommodation, travel, and care.
• United States: A brow lift starts at $4,500, with national averages from $5,460–$7,500, and can go as high as $20,000 in some cities. These prices usually cover only the surgeon’s fee—not anesthesia, facility, or aftercare.

Westerners can save 40–65% by choosing a Korean package. Turkey may have slightly lower base prices, but the all-in-one packages in Korea mean fewer unexpected costs and a smoother overall journey.

Table 2: Subbrow Lift Cost Comparison

Country/Region	Procedure	Average Cost Range	Key Inclusions/Notes	Estimated Savings (vs. USA)
South Korea (Seoul)	Subbrow Lift/Eyelid Package	$2,290 - $5,000	Package often includes consults, surgery, anesthesia, accomodation, etc.	40-65% savings
Turkey	Brow Lift	From $2,040	Base procedure; extras for travel, stay, care	Varies, sometimes less value
USA (National Avg.)	Brow Lift	$5,460 - $7,500	Surgeon only; no anesthesia, facility, meds, aftercare	N/A
USA (Expensive cities)	Brow Lift	$5,325 - $25,000	Wide variability based on surgeon and area	N/A
USA (Affordable areas)	Brow Lift	$4,500 - $8,500	Some bundles for tourists; often less inclusive than in Korea	N/A

Factors Affecting Cost

Things that matter when budgeting:

• Procedure specifics: Complexity affects cost; Subbrow Lift, brow lifts, and blepharoplasty all have different fees.
• Surgeon's expertise: Highly reputable or experienced surgeons usually charge more.
• Clinic location and prestige: Surgery in Seoul may cost 20% more than other cities due to overheads.
• Type of anesthesia: Local with sedation costs less than general anesthesia.
• Included services: All-inclusive packages may cover much more than just the procedure.
• Extras: Premium transfer, accommodation, or special recovery therapies may increase total cost.

Patient Experiences and Outcomes: Addressing "Puffy Upper Eyelids"

The Subbrow Lift directly targets fullness by taking out extra skin and, at times, fat from the upper eyelid area. It tightens the tissue, lifts the sub-brow region, and changes both how you look and function.

How Subbrow Lift Addresses "Puffy Upper Eyelids"

Patients report improvements both cosmetically and in everyday function:

• Cosmetic Enhancements:
  • Stronger brow arch, a fresher and younger look.
  • More open, lively eyes.
  • Less hooded lids and better-defined creases.
  • Natural, not “done” appearance (avoids the puffy look that can come from certain other methods).
  • Addresses brow/eyelid asymmetry and smooths fine lines.
• Functional Gains:
  • Improves vision if extra skin obstructs your sight.
  • Can relieve headaches caused by forehead muscle tension from drooping lids.
  • Measurable improvements in eyelid position and field of vision.

Real-World Patient Satisfaction

Most people who undergo a Subbrow Lift are very pleased—reporting that they look brighter, more alert, and natural. Patients often share that issues they thought were due to eyelid skin were instead caused by brow sagging, and a Subbrow Lift solved their concerns without taking away the natural eyelid crease. Many experience a boost in confidence and get relief from symptoms like eye makeup smudging or tension headaches. Both surgeon and patient satisfaction scores are high, averaging around 3.5–3.6 out of 4.

This procedure goes beyond looks: it often means better physical comfort and a confidence boost, underlining the importance of choosing a surgeon who values both function and natural appearance.

Managing Expectations: Scarring and Long-Term Results

• Scarring: There will be a scar at the brow, but it’s placed so it’s usually hidden by brow hair, the brow crease, or tattoos. Initially pink, it fades over a few months.
• Longevity: Results are long-lasting but not immune to the natural aging process—some maintenance may be needed with time.
• Combination Treatments: Doctors often recommend combining the Subbrow Lift with upper blepharoplasty for best results, especially if brow sagging and eyelid skin excess both exist.

Conclusion

The Subbrow Lift provides a reliable and focused solution for "puffy upper eyelids" due to issues like dermatochalasis, orbital fat prolapse, or brow descent. It offers both cosmetic and functional improvements with long-lasting, natural results. South Korea's excellence in surgery, integrated care, and cost-effective packages make it a top destination for this procedure, helping patients save significantly while enjoying a streamlined experience. To ensure the best outcome, patients should prioritize thorough consultation and choose reputable clinics and surgeons, focusing on the entire package value.

References

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